The Pros and Cons of Five Popular Countertops

Differences Between Today’s Top Countertop Choices

The surfaces we choose have the power to transform our homes into a space with the mood and aesthetic we’ve always dreamed of. In the kitchen, countertops are often the first thing that’s noticed, and, depending on what you choose, it can have a great visual impact.

If you’re looking for a hint of luxury, maybe marble countertops are best. If you’re looking to provide warmth, perhaps butcher block is the right choice. While the look of your counters should be considered, it’s not necessarily the most important thing. You’ll also want surfaces that are functional and that fit your budget and lifestyle.

We understand choosing the right materials can be difficult, which is why we’ve provided a breakdown of the pros and cons of some of the most popular countertop surfaces out there. Take a look to help you decide which countertops are best for your new kitchen.

Granite Countertops

Granite is a beautiful option for your kitchen surfaces. There are a variety of finish types to fit your aesthetic needs, including polished, sandblasted and flamed. Here are the pros and cons:

PROS: Granite is durable, scratch and stain-resistant, impervious to heat and water if properly sealed and very easy to clean. Each slab of granite is unique and they can come in a variety of colors. The resale value is relatively high.

CONS: The installation is rather labor-intensive, the material itself is expensive and it can wear over time if annual resealing is not performed. It’s also one of the most common options for countertops, meaning you’ll see it in a lot of other homes.

Butcher Block Countertops

Butcher block is a countertop material made from either one type of hardwood like oak or maple, or from a mixture of three or more different hardwoods. Here are some pros and cons:

PROS: Butcher block adds a warm look and feel to any kitchen. It is also naturally anti-bacterial, durable, biodegradable and affordable.

CONS: In order to protect the wood, butcher block needs to be sanded and oiled twice a year. The counter should have adequate ventilation to prevent the wood from expanding and contracting.

Marble Countertops

Marble is an elegant and timeless choice for countertops. Here are the pros and cons:

PROS: Marble is easily one of the most beautiful options for countertops. It comes in a variety of colors, including a brilliant bright white. Marble is also naturally cool, widely available and less expensive than other natural countertops.

CONS: Marble scratches easily, even by acidic things like lemon. It can also stain more easily than other materials from things like red wine.

Stainless Steel Countertops

Stainless steel is a modern option that can come in specialty finishes like satin or antique matte. Here are the pros and cons:

PROS: Stainless steel has industrial strength and durability. It offers a shiny, sleek look that is very easy to clean and disinfect. It is also resistant to heat, rust, corrosion and stains.

CONS: Despite its durability, it can dent and scratch rather easily. Fingerprints, dust and other smudges are very noticeable.

Ceramic Tile Countertops

Ceramic tile countertops are made from clay that is heated up and then glazed. Here are the pros and cons:

PROS: The shape and size of ceramic tiles can be customized to fit your unique space. These tiles are impervious to heat and staining, and if one is damaged, they’re very easy and inexpensive to replace.

CONS: The surface is not always perfectly even with ceramic tiles, and the grout in between can become a collecting place for food and dirt. Grout is also prone to staining. High gloss finishes can be ruined after excessive scrubbing.

Ultimately, each surface has its own pros and cons in terms of look and functionality. Let the experts at Kitchen Solvers help you make the right choice for your lifestyle and budget. Contact us today to learn about all of the amazing services we have to offer. Also, for more information on all the different countertop choices, see our article, Choosing Kitchen Countertops.

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